Using geographical information system (GIS) technology to control the spread of Plum pox virus in Odessa region, Ukraine

Viral diseases are among the main causes for declines in the productivity of stone-fruit plantations and their adaptability to abiotic factors.
Virus-infected plants are often more susceptible to adverse ambient conditions and more sensitive to fungal and bacterial diseases.
To date, Plum pox virus (PPV) is subject to quarantine list A2 of the European Plant Protection Organization (EPPO). The virus is on the list of regulated pests common in Ukraine, and is subject to internal quarantine.
In Ukraine, the areas of PPV spread amount to 40,132,764 ha.
In Odessa region, districts totaling 18.5 ha are in PPV quarantine.
Six hotbeds of PPV infection totaling 28 ha were found in Odessa region.
For the first time in Odessa region, PPV was found on cherry trees.
PPV-D was the only strain of the virus detected in every hotbed in Odessa region.
To conduct phytosanitary zoning and determine potential areas for the progress of the disease in Odessa region, we have used the modern method of geographical information system (GIS) technology.
GIS-aided maps were constructed showing PPV spread in Odessa region.
To our knowledge, this is the first attempt to employ GIS technology to control plant pests in Ukraine.
Provided it is properly maintained, the geospatial data, and the ability to generate detailed maps with it, is key to the success of PPV containment.